Bocas del Toro Remains Under Heavy Rain Impact: New Flooding Reported in Chiriquí Grande

The province of Bocas del Toro in Panama is experiencing continued impacts from heavy rainfall, with new flooding reported in the district of Chiriquí Grande. The National Civil Protection System (Sinaproc) reported that over 250 homes were affected in the Caimán, Búfalo, and Primero de Noviembre sectors due to intense precipitation early Sunday morning.

Specialized response teams are currently in the area assessing the damage. Authorities have cautioned that weather conditions remain unstable and are urging the public to exercise extreme caution. Residents are advised to avoid crossing swollen rivers and streams and to stay alert for official advisories.

These latest affected areas add to the ongoing emergency declared by the Center for Emergency Operations (COE). Previously, the COE reported a preliminary toll of 1,300 homes affected and more than 4,000 people displaced by flooding across the province. The districts of Changuinola and Almirante have been particularly hard-hit, with river overflows and inundations impacting hundreds of families, including vulnerable populations like the elderly, children, and individuals with disabilities.

Given the scale of the crisis, the government is evaluating housing solutions for communities in vulnerable areas that have repeatedly faced flooding. Authorities are reiterating their calls for residents to follow the guidance of emergency agencies and avoid risky situations as the rains persist.